Major Arcana · XIX

The Sun tarot card meaning

The Sun is the card of joy, success and clarity: things are going well and can be seen as they are. Reversed, it shows temporary setbacks, dampened optimism or overconfidence.

Upright
Joy · success · celebration · positivity · vitality
Reversed
Negative energy · depression · sadness
Yes or no
Yes
Element
Archetype (Major Arcana)
The Sun tarot card (Rider–Waite style)

What The Sun shows

A child rides a white horse beneath a bright sun, holding a red banner, with sunflowers behind a wall. Everything is open and visible. The card represents vitality, innocence and the simple happiness of being alive.

The Sun upright meaning

Upright, The Sun is one of the most positive cards: success, warmth, confidence and clarity. Things that were confusing become clear. It is a good time to share good news, celebrate, and enjoy what is working. Energy and health are strong.

The Sun reversed meaning

Reversed, the Sun is still the Sun, but clouded: delays, a temporary low, or optimism that does not match reality. It can also show a need to reconnect with simple joy rather than chasing success.

The Sun in love and relationships

Upright: Happiness, openness and a relationship that feels warm and secure. Celebrations and commitment are possible.

Reversed: Temporary friction or unrealistic expectations. The connection is still good underneath.

The Sun in career and money

Upright: Success, recognition and visible achievement.

Reversed: Minor setbacks or overconfidence. Keep your expectations grounded.

Is The Sun a yes or no card?

Yes. A clear yes.

Yes-or-no readings flatten a card into one word. If the question matters, a short spread that shows the context around The Sun will tell you more than the verdict alone.

A question to carry with you

What is already going well that I have not let myself fully enjoy?

Related cards

See all 78 tarot card meanings

Tarot on Fateful Deck is offered for reflection and entertainment. Card meanings describe common interpretations in the Rider–Waite–Smith tradition; they are not predictions or professional advice.